About Oman

The Sultanate of Oman is located on the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula and has an area of approximately 309,500km2. It is bordered on the west by Saudi Arabia, to the northwest lie the United Arab Emirates and to the southwest is Yemen. The east coast meets with the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. The capital of Oman is Muscat, a cosmopolitan, but relaxed city, free from the hustle and bustle found in many of Arabia's other capital cities. In the south of the Sultanate, is Salalah, the administrative capital of the Dhofar region.

Oman is a surprisingly green country, particularly in Dhofar, due to its location on the monsoon paths. Landscaping and beautification are priorities of the Municipalities, and gardens, parks and grassy knolls line the main highway. The countryside is varied, from rugged mountain ranges to desert sands, to green, lush wadis (riverbeds). The climate in Muscat is markedly different to that in Dhofar: during the winter, Muscat enjoys temperatures of, average, 300C, dropping to around 180 C at night. However, in the summer, Muscat bakes in 45-480 C, while Dhofar cools down in the light monsoon rain.

Sultan Qaboos bin Said is Oman's ruler. He acceded to the throne in 1970 and in the space of 32 years has transformed his country into one which boasts modern and innovative healthcare, education, telecommunications networks and a stable economy. Although the Sultan has ultimate power in governing his country, the daily administration of the land is performed by various Ministries. The Sultan is a well-respected leader, both at home and in the international arenas. In recognition of his role in Middle East peace keeping, he was presented with the International Peace Award in 1988 by the National Council on US-Arab Relations.

A visit to the Sultanate is sure to surprise and delight. Holidays can be as adventurous and energetic, or relaxed and uncomplicated as you choose.